Finding a good place to live that doesn’t cost too much money can be tough especially if you are looking in a big city like Los Angeles. If you are typing “cheap apartments near me” into your phone, you are not alone! Many people are looking for an affordable home as the prices are very high in Los Angeles and affordable living is hard. This guide will help you understand how to find a cheap apartment in Los Angeles. We will talk about where to look, how to search, and how to avoid problems to live a healthy life.
What Does “Cheap” Mean in LA?
First, it is important to be realistic because a “cheap” apartment in a small town is very different from a “cheap” apartment in LA. In Los Angeles, “cheap” usually means it costs less than other places in the city. You might still pay between $1,400 and $1,800 for a small studio apartment. A good rule is to try not to spend more than 30% of your income on rent. For example, if you make $4,000 a month, try to find a apartment for $1,200 or less so that you can live and afford easily.
Good Neighborhoods for Lower Rent
Finding an apartment in the most famous neighborhoods is very difficult. But if you look a little further out, you can find some great areas. Here are a few places in LA known for being more affordable.
Koreatown
This neighborhood is very busy and has amazing food. The apartments are often in older, large buildings. It is close to downtown, so you can often find a good deal.
North Hollywood (NoHo)
This area is north of Hollywood. It has a cool arts scene and is less expensive. The Metro Red Line train stops here, which makes it easy to get around without a car.
Van Nuys
Located in the San Fernando Valley, Van Nuys has a lot of apartment buildings. Rents are often lower here than in other parts of the city. It can get hot in the summer, but you get more space for your money.
Palms
This neighborhood is near the city of Culver City. It is popular with students and young people because it’s not too expensive and has a friendly community feel.
Remember, a cheaper apartment might mean a longer drive to work or an older building. Think about what is most important to you.
How to Search for Apartments
Just typing “cheap apartments near me” is a start, but you need to do more to find the best deals.
Use Apartment Websites
Websites like Zillow, tripalink and HotPads are very helpful. You can set the search filter to your maximum rent to see only apartments you can afford. You can also sign up for email alerts for new listings.
Try Facebook and Craigslist
Many people rent their apartments directly on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. You can sometimes find great deals from a regular person instead of a big company. Be very careful of scams (more on that later).
Drive or Walk Around
This is an old-fashioned but great way to find a home. Pick a neighborhood you like and walk or drive through it. Look for “For Rent” signs in windows. Sometimes, smaller landlords don’t advertise online, so you can find a hidden gem.
Tell Everyone You Know
Tell your friends, family, and coworkers that you are looking for an apartment. Someone might know about a place that is available before it is even advertised. This is called “word of mouth.”
Get Your Paperwork Ready
When you find a good apartment, you need to act fast. Good, cheap apartments get rented quickly. Be ready so you can apply immediately.
How to Avoid Scams
Unfortunately, some people try to scam apartment hunters. Here is how to stay safe:
- Never wire money or pay with gift cards before you see the apartment. This is almost always a scam.
- See the apartment in person. If the landlord says they are “out of the country” and can’t show you the place, be very suspicious.
- If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. If a beautiful apartment costs half of what similar places cost, it is likely a scam.
Final Thoughts
Finding a cheap apartment in Los Angeles takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find something right away. Use the tips shared in this guide and look in different neighborhoods, and be ready to apply when you find a place you like. You can find an affordable place to call home in LA. Good luck with your search!